Lizards The Size Of Dogs Are Invading Texas In Droves
Invasive species are never welcome, but Texas’ newest uninvited guest takes that sentiment to a whole new level. The black-and-white tegu lizard is the size of a dog, and it’s spreading like wildfire across the southeastern U.S. – including right here in the good ol’ Lone Star State. Here’s everything you need to know:
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Intelligent and relatively meek, the reptile makes a great pet for those with a propensity to seek out exotic species.
This has led to the population spreading like wildfire across the southeastern United States, including Texas.
The black-and-white tegu is omnivorous, and among its favorite snacks are the eggs of animals that nest on or near the ground.
The lizard also likes to eat strawberries and other low-growing fruits and vegetables, which could endanger local food supplies.
The lizard prefers subtropical environments that receive significant rainfall, which is why it chose the southeastern U.S. to invade. As this type of weather pattern spreads northward due to climate change, the tegu population could further expand, as well.
It can also recover quickly from being hunted, even to the point of near-extinction.
Georgia has even developed a Tegu Task Force that encourages residents to submit photos of suspected tegus. Once identified, volunteers volunteers trap the animal and bring it to a rescue facility.
Visit the National Geographic website to learn more.
Have you ever spotted a black-and-white tegu lizard in Texas? If so, where? Let us know in the comments, and check out our previous article for more creepy crawlies you just might come across in the Lone Star State.
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